Question

Topic: Strategy

Dealing With "lazy" Clients. How To Convince Your Client They Have To Run Their Business Before You Can Market It!

Posted by Blaine Wilkerson on 1/18/2004 at 1:52 PM ET 125 Points
I have a client who used to make a particular toy in his garage. His online sales over the last few years has earned him enough capital to to have the toy mass-produced in Vietnam. Currently, there are several thousand units sitting on the dock.

I acquired exclusive US distribution rights for the toy and went to work! As a result of my efforts, this toy has recieved rave reviews from reputable sources and has attracted the likes of MARVEL, Coca-Cola, Toys R Us, the NBA, etc.

When I approached my client to provide me with company sales history, general info, FIRM factory pricing and most imortantly-how he plans on fullfilling orders for a nationwide launch, he responded with a "Whoa, this is too much for me".

So far, all I asked for was information and I have done the rest. He is suddenly focused on getting the existing units off the dock and "slowing down" since all the questions and emails etc are wearing him out.

Not to mention I found out he does not have a L/C, no capital for importing, no imort license, no storage or distribution facilities, etc. All of which he led us to believe he had before we took on the project.

The product is awesome and will do well. I would like to be the one to make it happen, but I have a "lazy" client who is also broke!

Any suggestions on how to deal with this situation?

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RESPONSES

  • Posted by Blaine Wilkerson on 1/19/2004 at 1:08 PM Author
    John once again, you have hit the nail on the head. ONly this time it is for MY company andnot others on the forum (I have made several positive comments in the forum on your answers in my answers)!

    I have to give credit to the others as well...Thank You!!

    The decision to either walk or fund this whole project is teeter-toddering in my brain!

    First I am going to approach Toys R US and Marvel (Toy Biz). IF they bite and place an order large enoughto get an L/C, I''m in business.

    If those options fails....I don''t know if it is worth sacrificing a large % of my company and perhaps even my motgage to obtain VC!!!

    Thank you all for the input!
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